KRK ROKIT 8 G3 Review: New Level of Clarity in Generation 3

KRK continues to take its ROKIT line of active studio monitors up a notch with Generation 3, or simply G3.

Crossfadr reviewed the G2 in June 2012, finding this then-boundary-pushing line a high-quality product for the price. Ideal for DJing and studio work, the ROKIT 8 G3 retains the same physical features: a one-inch soft-domed tweeter, a front-firing bass port, and the distinctive eight-inch glass-aramid yellow cone. As well, the curved, or radiused, edges present in both models continue to improve sound quality.

Beyond these physical similarities, however, the ROKIT 8 G3 marks a steep upgrade for this line. Compared to the G1 and G2, this studio monitor feels larger and gives an even, overall better sound with less emphasis on the bass. Accuracy gets taken up a notch for uses ranging from professional performances as a DJ or musician and common studio work like recording, mixing, and mastering.

As a bi-amp, class A/B amplifier with SPL up to 109dB and frequency response ranging from 35Hz to 35kHz, the ROKIT 8 G3 starts where the G2 left off with functionality and drastically improves upon it. One aspect is the wave guide, an aspect for frequency pattern control that allows the user to monitor the sound’s quality and that directs the sound out and away from the cabinet. For the RoKit 8 G3, the wave guide essentially goes a step further, offering the user an even more detailed approach for imaging while listening.

The front-firing bass port has lessened port turbulence since the G2 model. Retained with the G3, it continues to reduce boundary coupling and gives even more flexibility with placing the monitor in any space. The quality that lets a performer get good, clear sound in any space now gives more expansiveness and versatility.

Beyond these features, the ROKIT 8 G3 received a few more upgrades. An engineered surface, for instance, adds a new level to lessening diffraction distortion – and, ultimately, allowing any mix or recording to be as accurate and clear as possible. Multiple universal audio input connections let the studio monitor integrate seamlessly into any setup or system without compromising. As well, the model provides even larger headroom and lower distortion than before, and includes a foam pad for setting a greater distance between the speaker and any surface it’s placed on.

One of KRK’s claims for the ROKIT line has been the evenness in sound across all frequencies, and the G3 continues along this path with a greater sweet spot. What’s notable is the tweeter, giving the greatest clarity to date for this line and an extended response up to 35kHz, and a lightweight woofer, which enhances the preciseness of midrange frequencies. The front-firing port, as well, extends the lower frequency. Together, these features allow the user to adjust the monitors to his or her tastes, while the low-resonance enclosure reduces sound coloring and distortion even more.

There are several reasons the KRK ROKIT 8 has been a professional choice for engineers and recording artists, especially for mixing and mastering: The monitor’s sound is one of the most honest out there. The unique design significantly minimizes distortion compared to its boxy counterparts and the already-large sweet spot and evenness across frequencies mean you won’t listen to a mix out of balance, only to find it sounds completely different on another set of speakers. Essentially, all of these qualities that make the G2 a must-have for recording professionals, DJs, and musicians – not to mention the low price – simply make the G3 the next evolution – and a model soon to become de rigueur in studios everywhere.